STP100 (Fiber Optic Characterization) OTDR - CD - PMD Test

Alcatel-Lucent
OPTICS
1830 PSS
Fiber Optic Characterization Generic Procedure
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Special Test Procedure (STP100)
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1830 PSS Fiber Optic Characterization Generic Procedure
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GCD Global Delivery
Readiness Documentation
Table of Contents
1. General Information ......................................................................................... 5

Document Description ....................................................................................... 5
Document Version ............................................................................................ 5
When is FOC required? ...................................................................................... 5
Intended Audience ........................................................................................... 5
Contact Information ......................................................................................... 5
Related Documents .......................................................................................... 5
FOC Process Summary ....................................................................................... 6
FOC Process Requirements ................................................................................. 6
FOC Process Flow ............................................................................................ 7
2. Required Equipment ......................................................................................... 8
Required Test Equipment ................................................................................... 8
OTDR Test Set specifications............................................................................... 8
CD Test Set specifications .................................................................................. 8
PMD Test Set specifications ................................................................................ 9
Battery Life ................................................................................................... 9
Equipment Calibration ...................................................................................... 9
Test Set Reference........................................................................................... 9
Procedure...................................................................................................... 9
Safety Precautions ......................................................................................... 10
Recommended Fiber Cleaning Equipment ............................................................. 11
3. OTDR Trace Properties .................................................................................... 12
OTDR Trace Events......................................................................................... 12
Reflective Event ............................................................................................ 13
Non-reflective Event ...................................................................................... 13
Fiber End Event............................................................................................. 13
Connection Characteristics ............................................................................... 14
Pulse Width Trace Examples ............................................................................. 15
4. Inspect Before You Connect .............................................................................. 16
Follow ICIC Process ........................................................................................ 16
5. OTDR Measurement Short Trace ....................................................................... 17
OTDR Short Trace Purpose ............................................................................... 17
OTDR Short Trace Set-up ................................................................................. 17
OTDR Short Trace Procedure............................................................................. 19
6. OTDR Measurement Long Trace........................................................................ 23
OTDR Long Trace Purpose ................................................................................ 23
OTDR Long Trace Set-up .................................................................................. 23
OTDR Long Trace Procedure ............................................................................. 25
7. Fiber Span Loss Measurement ............................................................................ 27
Span Loss Purpose.......................................................................................... 27
Span Loss Set-up (1550 nm) .............................................................................. 27
Span Loss Measurement ................................................................................... 28
Span Loss Set-up (1430 nm) .............................................................................. 29
Alcatel-Lucent Internal
Span Loss Measurement (1430 nm)...................................................................... 29

8. Chromatic Dispersion Test ................................................................................ 30
CD Test Purpose ............................................................................................ 30
CD Test Set-up .............................................................................................. 30
CD Test Procedure ......................................................................................... 30
CD Trace Example.......................................................................................... 32
9. Polarization Mode Dispersion Test ...................................................................... 33
PMD Test Purpose .......................................................................................... 33
PMD Test Set-up ............................................................................................ 33
PMD Test Procedure ....................................................................................... 33
PMD Trace Example ........................................................................................ 34
Appendix A: Troubleshooting Example .................................................................... 35
Connector Issue Example ................................................................................. 35
Connector Issue Resolved ................................................................................. 35
Appendix B: Fiber Inspection ................................................................................ 36
Inspection Probe Requirements ......................................................................... 36
IEC/IPC Standards .......................................................................................... 36
Inspection Criteria ......................................................................................... 37
Appendix C: Index of Refraction (IOR) Values ............................................................ 38
IOR Values Table ........................................................................................... 38
Appendix D: Fiber Requirements for Raman amplifiers ................................................ 39
Important Background..................................................................................... 39
Fiber Requirements for Raman amplifiers ............................................................. 39
Appendix E: FOC LOG Data Worksheet .................................................................... 40
FOC LOG Data Worksheet Template .................................................................... 40

Fiber Optic Characterization Generic Procedure 1830 PSS
1. General Information
Document This document contains procedures for performing Fiber Optic Characterization (FOC)
Description measurements on the customer deployed optical fiber plant. It is focused on the requirements
for the 1830 PSS product family.
For many optical DWDM networks rigorous FOC is critical for proper network design and
successful implementation.
Document Version 3.0, September 17, 2012.

Version
When is FOC Data about the fiber type, length, losses, and dispersion characteristics of the fiber are
required? necessary inputs to the network design as well as the network integration process. In many
cases the customer will already have this basic information and new FOC is not required.
FOC is required either when the fiber data is not available, or when Raman amplification is
required on an 1830 PSS network.
Intended This procedure is intended for use by any technician who needs to perform Fiber Optic
Audience Characterization measurements on an optical network. It is assumed that the technician has
had proper training in the use of the test sets required.
Contact Address any feedback to: gpec.optics@alcatel-lucent.com

Information
Related 1830 PSS FOC Checklist:

Documents https://all1.na.alcatel-lucent.com/Teams/GCDNetworks/default.aspx
Select Optics GPEC under Team Sites.
Select 1830 PSS 16/32 WDM .
Scroll to bottom of page to select the latest FOC checklist document under Additional 1830
PSS Documents and Information.
Alcatel-Lucent IEH 600, Section 162 Fiber Optic Cleaning, Inspecting , and Testing
https://all1.na.alcatel-lucent.com/Teams/GCDNetworks/default.aspx
Scroll to Documents. Select the latest Deployment M&P document. Locate Section 162.
Continued on next page
All Releases Alcatel-Lucent Internal 5

1. General Information, Continued
FOC Process The Fiber Optic Characterization process consists of the stages described below.
Summary
Stage Description
1 OTDR short trace measurement with launch reel
2 OTDR long trace measurement with launch reel
3 Bi-directional span loss measurement
4 Chromatic Dispersion (CD) measurement
5 Polarization Mode Dispersion (PMD) measurement
6 Analysis of all measurements taken
7 Test data report and/or files (Save every trace file if possible)
FOC Process The Span loss, CD and PMD measurements require a person with a test set at each end of
Requirements the fiber span to initiate and record measurements.
IMPORTANT: Measurements should always be made as close as possible to the

physical connection point on the 1830 system. Measurements should include all possible
intra-office fiber cables and fiber patch panels.
Confirm that all intra-office fibers are installed and can be included in the FOC measurements.
IMPORTANT: You must reference the transmit and receive Span Loss test sets and transmit
and receive CD test sets to each other before transporting to separate sites . Refer to Test Set
Reference procedure.

1. General Information, Continued
FOC Process This diagram shows a typical FOC process flow. Some tests may not be mandatory for a
Flow particular network.

2. Required Equipment
Required Test The test equipment described below is required to perform all of the FOC tests. Some test
Equipment sets may have capability to perform more than one function.
Qty Description
2 Span Loss Test Sets for 1550nm (could be OTDR)
1 *If Required 1430 nm Transmitter for 1430 nm span loss
measurement. Refer to Span Loss Set-up (1430 nm) for conditions.
2 Optical Time Domain Reflectometer (OTDR)
2 1.1 km fiber launch reel (or up to 2km)
NOTE: Fiber type should match the intra-office fiber to be connected to
the test set.
1 Chromatic Dispersion test set (Each test set comes with one transmitter
and one receiver)
1 Polarization Mode Dispersion test set (Each test set comes with one
transmitter and one receiver)
For each optical Appropriate adapters for the fiber under test (LC, SC, etc.)
connector port
NOTE: OTDR, CD, and PMD test sets are available from many vendors. Any test set that
meets the specifications for performing these measurements may be used. Some vendors
include JDSU, Anritsu, Tektronix, Wavetek, EXFO, Ando, Wandel & Goltermann.
The operator must be trained in the proper use of the test set.
OTDR Test Set The OTDR test set must meet the following minimum specifications:
specifications
Parameter Requirement
Fiber length (distance) setting 2 to 160 km
Resolution 0.25 to 16 meters (1 to 52 feet)
Pulse width 3 to 20,000 nanoseconds
Wavelength (frequency) setting 1550 nm
Dynamic Range Greater than 33 dB (long haul network)
Averaging Trace Time range 15 seconds to 2 minutes
CD Test Set The Chromatic Dispersion test set must meet the following minimum specifications:
specifications
Frequency Range 1260 to 1640 nm
Frequency increment resolution 1 nm
Dynamic Range 42 dB minimum recommended
3 Term (3T) Sellmeire method Enabled

2. Required Equipment, Continued
PMD Test Set The Polarization Mode Dispersion test set must meet the following minimum specifications:
specifications
Measurement resolution At least 0.01 picoseconds
Minimum upper PMD measurement 40 picoseconds
Wavelength Range All of C-Band (1435 to 1640 nm)
Dynamic Range 55 dB minimum recommended
Battery Life Some of the equipment described in this document may use batteries for power. To ensure
valid test results make sure the batteries are fresh or recharged.
Equipment Confirm that all test equipment is within the calibration cycle before performing any testing.
Calibration
Test Set Follow these steps to reference the transmit and receive test sets.
Reference
Procedure Step Action
1 Clean, Inspect, and Connect a short fiber jumper directly between the transmit
and receive ports of the test sets to be used.
2 For the Span Loss test set - Record the power level measured at the Receive
ports (measure in both directions), for later use in the 7. Fiber Span Loss
Measurement.
3 For the CD test set - Activate the CD test and calibrate the test set for the
zero fiber case, according to test set instructions..

Safety
Precautions
DO NOT perform any fiber testing with the laser energized.

DO NOT look directly into the end of a fiber optic cable or fiber optic transceiver without
being absolutely certain that the system is deactivated and the laser power source is off.
DO NOT allow the end of the fiber optic cable to make contact with any surface including
fingers.
Ensure fiber optic cables are connected to proper test equipment before energizing the
laser.
Use proper handling procedures when working with fiber optics cables. Sharp bends and
kinks will result in damaged or degraded fiber optics performance.
Handle the fiber optic connectors with care to avoid direct contact with any contamination.
Dirt, oil, grease, wax and many liquids are damaging to the fiber optic.
Use only the recommended fiber optic grade cleaning solvents and cleaning tools.

Recommended The following fiber cleaning equipment is recommended to perform the FOC procedure.
Fiber Cleaning Refer to IEH 600, Section 162 in Related Documents for detailed instructions on the use of
Equipment this equipment.
The following equipment found in TK-0665B is recommended for fiber optic inspection,
cleaning, and insertion loss measurement:
TK-0654 L2 Single-mode 9/125 um (yellow) Optical Test Jumper Kit
TK-0654 L3 Multimode 62.5/125 (orange) Optical Test Jumper Kit
TK-0654L5 Optical Fiber Cleaning Kit (port and connector end face cleaning)
ITE-7117B JDSU OLS-36 Optical Light Source
ITE-7116 JDSU FI-60 Optical Power Meter
ITE-7511 JDSU P5000i Digital Video Inspection Probe with FiberChekPRO software
ITE-7511 JDSU P5000i Video Inspection Probe
An Installation Notebook Computer with FiberChekPRO software installed is also required for
use with ITE-7511 (video inspection probe).
Installation Notebook Computer with FiberChekPRO
NOTE:
If the above probe is not available then an equivalent must be used. See Appendix B: Fiber
Inspection.
FiberChek2, the previous version, may also be used but the detailed procedure for setup
and use will be different. Refer to the JDSU FiberChek2 user manual for details.

3. OTDR Trace Properties
OTDR Trace Each data point on the trace has a power level and a distance associated with it. The data plot
Events yields a graph of returned signal level (dB) versus distance (km).
Since light loses power as it goes through a fiber (due to absorption, bending, and scattering),
the resultant graph is generally a line sloping down as distance increases.
The rate of loss due to scattering is generally constant within a normal fiber. Thus, the slope of
the backscatter line indicates the fiber dB/km value.
Sudden changes in the returned signal level indicate an event, something that is not the
ordinary linear backscatter.
An event is classified as being either reflective, meaning there is a sudden increase in the
returned light level due to an end reflection (or two ends butted up against each other), or
non-reflective, meaning that the backscatter level shifts suddenly up or down.
Reflections only occur at fiber ends, such as at mechanical splices and the cable end.
The diagram below shows the various types of events that may be seen on an OTDR trace.

3. OTDR Trace Properties, Continued
Reflective
Event
Non-reflective
Event
Fiber End Event

Connection The following are examples of what different connection points may look like on the OTDR
Characteristics trace.
Connection Type Trace Example

Connector or Mechanical Splice
Gain / Amplifier
Macrobend
Notice the difference in loss at different

wavelengths.
Fusion Splice
End of Fiber or Break in the Fiber

Pulse Width Pulse Width - The laser in the OTDR is pulsed. The laser is turned on for a precise length of
Trace Examples time. Time is distance. Turning the laser on for 10 ns, will fill up 1 meter of fiber with light. The
longer the laser is turned on, the longer the pulse of light traveling thru the fiber. Longer pulses
occupy longer physical distances in the fiber.
There are two phenomena that are directly dependent on pulse width:
Dead Zones - Longer Dead Zones result from longer pulse widths. Dead Zones are better
when shorter.
Dynamic Range - Longer Dynamic Ranges result from longer pulse widths. Dynamic
Ranges are better when longer.
Use the shortest pulse width which still provides sufficient dynamic range (DR).
Too long (good DR but

large deadzones)
Just right (good DR -

short deadzones)
Too short (short

deadzones but
insufficient DR)

4. Inspect Before You Connect
Follow ICIC Always follow the ICIC Process to ensure fiber end-faces and optical ports/bulkheads are
Process clean prior to mating connectors.
Refer to IEH 600, Section 162 in Related Documents for detailed instructions on the use of
this equipment.
Inspect optical jumpers and ports with optical probe
Clean optical jumpers and ports
Inspect optical jumpers and ports with optical probe
Connect to optical port/bulkhead
Inspect, Clean, Inspect, Connect Process

5. OTDR Measurement Short Trace
OTDR Short This procedure will perform OTDR short trace measurements across the fiber span, between
Trace Purpose the two 1830 systems. The OTDR identifies the overall length of the fiber, point losses and
discontinuities due to fiber splices, connectors or other defects in the fiber, plus reflectance
and return loss.
Short trace focuses especially on the fiber characteristics close to the 1830 node, where the
effects of loss and reflectance may have more impact. These parameters are important for
defining the 1830 network design.
OTDR Short Position a person at the measuring point at each end of the span.
Trace Set-up
Provide an OTDR test set at each end of the span (recommended, but not required).
IMPORTANT: Always use a fiber launch reel for short traces! Always measure
the fiber plant as close as possible to the physical connection point on the 1830 system.
IMPORTANT: The far end of the fiber must be unterminated!
General Tips:
If no information is known about the fiber to be tested, begin with Auto-range and tweak
parameters from there.
Begin with high resolution and adjust as needed.
Ensure clean connectors for maximum dynamic range and testing range.
Follow the steps below to provision the test set for proper measurement results.
Step Action
1 Set the correct Index Of Refraction (IOR) for the fiber under test.
NOTE: Refer to Appendix C: Index of Refraction (IOR) Values

2 Set the correct Backscatter Coefficient for the fiber under test
NOTE: Exact value should be obtained from fiber manufacturer. A common

value is -82 dB.
3 Set the wavelength to match the wavelengths to be used (1550 nm).
4 Set the range (fiber length or distance) to be 4 km or 5 km.

5. OTDR Measurement Short Trace, Continued
OTDR Short
Trace Set-up
Step Action
(continued)
5 Set the resolution.
NOTE: This parameter must be changed to meet the needs of the

measurement. The general rule is to set the resolution as high as possible
(which means smallest number) without causing too much noise in the result.
Example: if offered a choice of 32km/2m or 32km/16m, start with the 2 meter
resolution.
6 Set the Number of Averages.
NOTES:
Start with medium averaging which should produce clean, useable traces.
If greater dynamic range is needed increase the averaging (slow setting). If
Number of Averages is not available, increase the acquisition time of the
trace.
7 Set the Pulse Width to 3 ns (or lowest possible setting).
NOTE: The pulse width may need to be increased to meet the needs of the
measurement. Use the shortest pulse width which still provides sufficient
dynamic range.
8 Enter information into the test set regarding:
site location
date
fiber number
tester name, etc.

OTDR Short
Trace
Procedure
DO NOT: Do not perform the OTDR scan in both directions of the span at the
same time!
Follow these steps to execute the OTDR Short Trace measurement.
Step Action
1 Using the appropriate adapters, Clean, Inspect and Connect the launch reel
fiber to the OTDR test set, and to the fiber to be measured.
DO NOT: Do not connect any fiber unless certain both sides of

each connection are clean. Damage to the connector mating surfaces may
result if there are contaminants.
Once the fibers are connected to the test set, you are ready to run the test.
2 Follow the test set instructions to start the OTDR measurement scans.
3 Analyze the resultant traces and adjust the parameters as needed to obtain a
clean, accurate trace.
IMPORTANT: Refer to Appendix D: Fiber Requirements for

Raman amplifiers if Raman amplifiers are intended or required for this
network.



OTDR Short
Trace
Step Action
Procedure
(continued) 4 Are there any unacceptable or unexpected losses or reflectance in the trace?
If ... Then ...

Yes Go to Step 5.
No Skip to Step 6.
5 Attempt to correct the problem if possible by cleaning the fiber or connector.
NOTE: Refer to Appendix A: Troubleshooting for troubleshooting tips. If not

able to correct, notify the project manager for further action. Once all
problems are corrected, go to Step 6.
6 Save the OTDR trace file to memory to the recommended file name:
XXXYYY15.1zz
XXX = the source site name (e.g. par for Paris)
YYY = the destination site name (e.g. nyc for New York City)
15 indicates that the trace was measured at 1550 nm.
The (1) in the first digit after the decimal point indicates a Short trace.
The last two zz digits indicate the fiber number (e.g. 08)
Example filename: parnyc15.108

7 Record the measurement data in the Appendix E: FOC LOG Data Worksheet.
NOTE: This step can be done at later time using the saved file, if necessary.
8 Repeat Steps 1 - 7 in the opposite direction of the fiber span.

6. OTDR Measurement Long Trace
OTDR Long This procedure will perform OTDR long trace measurements across the fiber span, between
Trace Purpose the two 1830 systems. The OTDR identifies the overall length of the fiber, point losses and
discontinuities due to fiber splices, connectors or other defects in the fiber, plus reflectance
and return loss.
Long trace measures losses and reflectances across the whole length of the fiber, including
identifying the precise end of the fiber, to determine exact length. These parameters are
important for defining the 1830 network design.
OTDR Long Position a person at the measuring point at each end of the span.
Trace Set-up
Provide an OTDR test set at each end of the span.
IMPORTANT: Always use a fiber launch reel for long traces. Always measure
the fiber plant as close as possible to the physical connection point on the 1830 system.
General Tips:
If no information is known about the fiber to be tested, begin with Auto-range and tweak
parameters from there.
Begin with high resolution and adjust as needed.
Ensure clean connectors for maximum dynamic range and testing range.
Follow the steps below to provision the test set for proper measurement results.
Step Action
1 Set the correct Index Of Refraction (IOR) for the fiber under test.
NOTE: Refer to Appendix C: Index of Refraction (IOR) Values

2 Set the correct Backscatter Coefficient for the fiber under test.
NOTE: Exact value should be obtained from fiber manufacturer. A common

value is -82 dB.
3 Set the wavelength to match the wavelengths to be used (1550 nm).
4 Set the range (fiber length or distance) to be approximately 25% longer than
the actual fiber span length.
5 Set the resolution.
NOTE: This parameter must be changed to meet the needs of the

measurement. The general rule is to set the resolution as high as possible
(which means smallest number) without causing too much noise in the result.
Example: if offered a choice of 32km/2m or 32km/16m, start with the 2 meter
resolution.

6. OTDR Measurement Long Trace, Continued
OTDR Long
Trace Set-up
Step Action
(continued)
6 Set the Number of Averages.
NOTES:
Use medium averaging (or 60 seconds) which should produce clean,
useable traces.
If greater dynamic range is needed increase the averaging (slow setting). If
Number of Averages is not available, increase the acquisition time of the
trace.
7 Set the Pulse Width to observe a clear end-of fiber event (the value depends
on length of fiber).
NOTE: The pulse width may need to be increased to meet the needs of the
measurement. Use the shortest pulse width which still provides sufficient
dynamic range.
8 Enter information into the test set regarding:
site location
date
fiber number
tester name, etc.

OTDR Long
Trace
Procedure
DO NOT: Do not perform the OTDR scan in both directions of the span at the
same time!
Follow these steps to execute the OTDR Long Trace measurement.
Step Action
1 Using the appropriate adapters, Clean, Inspect and Connect the launch reel
fiber to the OTDR test set, and to the fiber to be measured.
DO NOT: Do not connect any fiber unless certain both sides of

each connection are clean. Damage to the connector mating surfaces may
result if there are contaminants. Once the fibers are connected to the test set,
you are ready to run the test.
2 Follow the test set instructions to start the OTDR measurement scans.
3 Analyze the resultant traces and adjust the parameters as needed to obtain a
clean, accurate trace.
NOTE: Change the span length to 8 km or to 16 km if anomalies are noticed

such as a high loss or high reflectance splice.
IMPORTANT: Refer to the Requirements in Appendix D: Fiber

Requirements for Raman amplifiers if Raman amplifiers are intended or
required for this network.
4 Are there any unacceptable or unexpected losses or reflectance in the trace?
If ... Then ...

Yes Go to Step 5.
No Skip to Step 7.

OTDR Long
Trace
Step Action
Procedure
(continued) 5 If you see a mid-span event you may need to repeat the measurement with
modified parameters (intermediate trace) to obtain a clearer view of the event.
Save the intermediate OTDR trace file to memory. It is recommended to name

the file as XXXYYY15.2zz
The (2) in the first digit after the decimal point indicates an intermediate
trace.
Increment this number each time another intermediate trace is required.
Otherwise, go to Step 6.
6 Attempt to correct the problem if possible by cleaning the fiber or connector.
NOTE: Refer to Appendix A: Troubleshooting for troubleshooting tips. If not

able to correct, notify the project manager for further action. Once all
problems are corrected, go to Step 7.
7 Save the long OTDR trace file to memory using the recommended file name:
XXXYYY15.0zz

The (0) in the first digit after the decimal point indicates a Long trace.

9 Repeat Steps 1 - 8 in the opposite direction of the fiber span.

7. Fiber Span Loss Measurement
Span Loss This procedure will measure the loss in optical power across the fiber span, between the two
Purpose 1830 systems. The span loss is an important parameter for defining the required optical
amplifiers in the network.
Span Loss measurement at 1550 nm must always be performed.
Span Loss measurement at 1430 nm is required in certain situations. Refer to Span Loss
Set-up (1430 nm).
Span Loss Set- Test Sets must be pre-referenced to eliminate the intrinsic loss of these components from
up (1550 nm) the overall measurement. Refer to Test Set Reference procedure.
Position a person at the measuring point at each end of the span.
Provide a span loss test set at each end of the span.
Follow the steps below to set up the span loss test sets.
Step Action
Transmit Set-up
1 At the transmitting site, power on the transmitter source.
2 Set the frequency of the test signal to 1550 nm.
3 Set the fiber type to Single Mode (SM), if applicable.
4 Set any other required parameters for the transmitter test set.
5 Clean, Inspect and Connect the span fiber to the transmit port on the test set.
6 If required, set the power level of the test signal to reach the far end receiver.
Do not activate the transmitter signal yet.
Receive Set-up
7 At the receiving site at opposite end of the span, power on the span loss test
set.
8 Set the frequency of the receiver to 1550 nm.
9 Set the fiber type to single mode (SM), if applicable.
10 Clean, Inspect, and Connect the receiving span fiber to the port on the power
meter.

7. Fiber Span Loss Measurement, Continued
Span Loss Follow the steps below to execute the span loss measurement.
Measurement
Step Action
1 Activate the transmit signal at the transmitter source.
2 Read the received power level on the power meter.
3 Calculate the span loss (in dB) as the Reference power level Received
power level.
Refer to Test Set Reference for the reference power level procedure.
4 Save the data to a file if possible. Record the span loss in the Appendix E:
FOC LOG Data Worksheet.
5 Turn off the transmit signal.
6 Repeat the Span Loss Set-up steps and Span Loss Measurement steps 1-5 in
the opposite direction of the span.
7 Repeat the span loss measurement for every fiber span in the network.

7. Fiber Span Loss Measurement, Continued
Span Loss Set- A span loss measurement at 1430 nm is required if any of the following conditions are true:
up (1430 nm)
Condition
1 The optical fiber was manufactured before the year 2000, or
2 The age of the optical fiber plant is unknown, or
3 The network will require Raman amplification in at least one span.
Test Sets must be pre-referenced to eliminate the intrinsic loss of these components from
the overall measurement. Refer to Test Set Reference procedure.
Provide a span loss test set at each end of the span.
Follow the steps below to set up the span loss test sets.
Step Action
Transmit Set-up
1 At the transmitting site, power on the transmitter source.
2 Set the frequency of the test signal to 1430 nm.
3 Set the fiber type to Single Mode (SM), if applicable.
4 Set any other required parameters for the transmitter test set.
5 Clean, Inspect and Connect the span fiber to the transmit port on the test set.
6 If required, set the power level of the test signal to reach the far end receiver.
Do not activate the transmitter signal yet.
Receive Set-up
7 At the receiving site at opposite end of the span, power on the span loss test
set.
8 Set the frequency of the receiver to 1430 nm.
9 Set the fiber type to single mode (SM), if applicable.
10 Clean, Inspect, and Connect the receiving span fiber to the port on the power
meter.
Span Loss Refer to Span Loss Measurement to perform the span loss measurements.
Measurement Repeat the span loss measurement for every span in the network.
(1430 nm)

8. Chromatic Dispersion Test
CD Test This procedure will measure the chromatic dispersion across the length of the fiber span.
Purpose Chromatic dispersion causes spreading of the light pulses in a fiber and can limit the distance
that a signal can travel. These parameters are important for defining the 1830 network design.
CD Test Set-up Test Sets should be pre-referenced to eliminate the intrinsic loss of these components from
the overall measurement. Refer to Test Set Reference procedure.
Provide a CD transmitter at one end, and a CD receiver at the other end of the span.
Follow these steps to prepare the test set for CD measurement.
Step Action
1 Turn on the test set and allow it to complete self-calibration
2 Set the test set frequency range to approximately 1260 nm to 1640 nm.
3 Set the frequency step size to 1 nm.
4 Enter the exact length of the fiber span based on the OTDR measurements.
5 Set test set as 3 Term Sellmeier method.
6 Enter information into the test set about site location, date, fiber number, tester
name, etc.
CD Test Follow these steps to execute the Chromatic Dispersion measurement.

Procedure
Step Action
1 Clean, Inspect and Connect the fiber to be tested to the CD test set
2 Select the correct test program on the test set.
3 Start the test on the test set.
4 When the test completes, save the test data to a file in memory for later
analysis. Provide a unique filename that will clearly identify the fiber tested.
It is recommended to name the file as XXXYYYCDzzz

CD indicates a Chromatic Dispersion measurement..
The last three zzz digits indicate the fiber number (e.g. 014)
Example filename: parnycCD014
See CD Trace example at CD Trace Example.

8. Chromatic Dispersion Test, Continued
CD Test
Procedure
Step Action
(continued)
6
If CD test set: Then:

Will be used for the PMD test Proceed to 9. Polarization Mode
Dispersion Test
Will not be used for the PMD test Disconnect the fiber from the CD test
set and install a protective dust cap.

8. Chromatic Dispersion Test, Continued
CD Trace See below for an example CD test trace.

Example

9. Polarization Mode Dispersion Test
PMD Test This procedure will measure the polarization mode dispersion across the length of the fiber
Purpose span.
Polarization Mode dispersion causes spreading of the different polarization modes of light
pulses in a fiber and can limit the distance that a signal can travel. These parameters are
important for defining the 1830 network design.
PMD Test Set- Test Sets should be pre-referenced to eliminate the intrinsic loss of these components from
up the overall measurement. Refer to Test Set Reference procedure.
Provide a PMD transmitter at one end, and a PMD receiver at the other end of the span
Follow these steps to prepare the test set for PMD measurement.
Step Action
1 Turn on the test set and allow it to complete self-calibration
2 Set the test set frequency range to 1550 nm range.
3 Set the test set method to FFT (Fast Fourier Transform).
4 Enter the exact length of the fiber span based on the OTDR measurements.
5 Set the Coupling parameter to Strong.
6 Set Number of Acquisitions to 3, and Averaging = ON.
7 Enter information into the test set about site location, date, fiber number, tester
name, etc.
PMD Test Follow these steps to execute the Polarization Mode Dispersion measurement.
Procedure
Step Action
1 Clean, Inspect and Connect the fiber to be tested to the PMD test set .
2 Select the correct test program on the test set.
3 Start the test on the test set.
4 When the test completes, save the test data to a file in memory for later
analysis. Provide a unique filename that will clearly identify the fiber tested.
It is recommended to name the file as XXXYYYPDzzz

PD indicates a Polarization Mode Dispersion measurement..
The last three zzz digits indicate the fiber number (e.g. 014)
Example filename: parnycPD014
See PMD trace example at PMD Trace Example.

9. Polarization Mode Dispersion Test, Continued
PMD Test
Procedure
Step Action
(continued)
6 Disconnect the fiber from the PMD test set and install a protective dust cap.
PMD Trace See below for an example PMD test trace.

Example

Appendix A: Troubleshooting Example
Connector Issue Below is an example of what a bad mechanical connection may look like. There are two things
Example that hint there is a problem. There is a reflective spike along with a high loss on one side of
the connection. Though this is within the 13 dB limit, it is clearly a bad run when you see it has
such a high total loss on such a short run.
Connector Issue The issue was located and resolved. Notice there is no longer a high level spike and heavy
Resolved loss after the subject connection. Total loss is now reasonable for the length of the run.

Appendix B: Fiber Inspection
Inspection If the inspection probe described in the Recommended Fiber Cleaning Equipment section is
Probe not available then a probe with equivalent or better specifications must be used.
Requirements The inspection probe used must:
Allow adherence to the IEC-61300-3-35/IPC-8497-1 standards for defect detection:
Low resolution microscopes must have a minimum field of view of at least 250 m and
capable of detecting low-contrast defects of 2 m in size.
High resolution microscopes must have a minimum field of view of at least 120 m and
capable of detecting low contrast scratches of 0.2 m in width and 0.003 m in depth.
See IEC/IPC Standards and Inspection Criteria below.
Support the use of adapter tips for compatibility with 1.25mm and 2.5mm connectors and
ports.
Use video microscopy (as opposed to direct view) with the ability to measure observed
defects.
It is recommended that the inspection probe also support:

Automated testing and contamination detection to eliminate human subjectivity, with:
Built-in PASS/FAIL criteria based on IEC-61300-3-35 standards.
Configurable PASS/FAIL settings to meet specific customer requirements.
Test report generation and archiving to provide results to the customer.
IEC/IPC IEC-61300-3-35 Fibre optic connector endface visual and automated inspection
Standards The IEC-61300-3-35 standard describes methods and criteria for inspecting fiber optic
connectors. It defines zones within the fiber endface and specifies allowable defect size and
placement within these zones to be able to quantitatively determine if the component should
pass or fail inspection. These methods and criteria apply to both visual and automated
inspection.
IPC-8497-1 Cleaning Methods and Contamination Assessment for Optical Assembly
Like IEC-61300-3-35, the IPC-8497-1 standard describes methods and criteria for inspecting
fiber optic connectors. IPC-8497-1 also describes processes used by the industry to clean
optical connections, as well as ways to evaluate these methods to determine which is best for
a particular application.

Appendix B: Fiber Inspection, Continued
Inspection The SM fiber inspection criteria are the same for the IEC and IPC standards. The MM fiber
Criteria criteria are slightly different. The figures below show the zones and acceptance criteria
presented in the IEC-61300-3-35 standard.
Inspection Zones (SM endface)
SM and MM Visual Inspection Criteria (IEC-61300-3-35)

Appendix C: Index of Refraction (IOR) Values
IOR Values The table below provides IOR values for various types of fiber.
Table
Manufacturer Fiber Type IOR at 1310 nm IOR at 1550 nm

Lucent SSMF 1.4659 1.4666
Lucent DSF 1.4743 1.4750
Lucent True Wave RS 1.4700 1.4700
Lucent True Wave Classic 1.4700 1.4700
Lucent True Wave Plus 1.4700 1.4700
Lucent All Wave 1.4666 1.4670
Corning SMF-21 1.4640 1.4640

Corning SMF-28 1.4700 1.4700
Corning DSF 1.4760 1.4760
Corning LEAF tbd 1.4697
Unknown Unknown or Mixed 1.466 1.467

Appendix D: Fiber Requirements for Raman

amplifiers
Important For optimum Raman Pump performance, it is critical to minimize the near-end fiber point
Background losses due to connectors, splices, etc.
The required Raman gain may not be achieved if the connected fiber does not meet
requirements.
If the RA2P Raman amplifier is used, the requirements that follow must be met for the
connected fiber plant.
Fiber Fiber Loss Requirements for a system using Raman amplifiers :

Requirements
for Raman
amplifiers Parameter Requirement
Intra-office loss from OSP fiber to port 0.5 dB maximum
connection on the 1830 system
Losses due to splices within 10 km of the 0.5 dB maximum
Raman amplifier
Optical Return Loss (ORL) from any single >33 dB
point reflection
Total ORL from the OSP fiber for NZ-DSF >26 dB
fibers
Total ORL from the OSP fiber for SSMF >29 dB
fibers

Appendix E: FOC LOG Data Worksheet
FOC LOG Data Please use the recommended template for recording the FOC data for optical network fiber
Worksheet spans.
Template Completed FOC data should be provided to the network designer and the network
commissioning/integration planner.
This template is located on the Optics GPEC web site:

https://all1.na.alcatel-lucent.com/Teams/GCDNetworks/default.aspx
Scroll to bottom of page to select the FOC LOG data template under Additional 1830 PSS
Documents and Information.


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Special Test Procedure (STP100)

Copyright 2012 Alcatel-Lucent. All Rights Reserved.

2 Alcatel-Lucent Internal All Releases

1. General Information ......................................................................................... 5

Span Loss Measurement (1430 nm)...................................................................... 29

4 Alcatel-Lucent Internal All Releases

Document Version 3.0, September 17, 2012.

Contact Address any feedback to: gpec.optics@alcatel-lucent.com

Related 1830 PSS FOC Checklist:

Continued on next page

All Releases Alcatel-Lucent Internal 5

1. General Information, Continued

IMPORTANT: Measurements should always be made as close as possible to the

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6 Alcatel-Lucent Internal All Releases

1. General Information, Continued

All Releases Alcatel-Lucent Internal 7

8 Alcatel-Lucent Internal All Releases

2. Required Equipment, Continued

Continued on next page

All Releases Alcatel-Lucent Internal 9

2. Required Equipment, Continued

DO NOT perform any fiber testing with the laser energized.

Continued on next page

10 Alcatel-Lucent Internal All Releases

2. Required Equipment, Continued

ITE-7511 JDSU P5000i Video Inspection Probe

Installation Notebook Computer with FiberChekPRO

All Releases Alcatel-Lucent Internal 11

3. OTDR Trace Properties

Continued on next page

12 Alcatel-Lucent Internal All Releases

3. OTDR Trace Properties, Continued

Fiber End Event

Continued on next page

All Releases Alcatel-Lucent Internal 13

3. OTDR Trace Properties, Continued

Connection Type Trace Example

Notice the difference in loss at different

End of Fiber or Break in the Fiber

Continued on next page

14 Alcatel-Lucent Internal All Releases

3. OTDR Trace Properties, Continued

Too long (good DR but

Just right (good DR -

Too short (short

All Releases Alcatel-Lucent Internal 15

4. Inspect Before You Connect

Inspect, Clean, Inspect, Connect Process

16 Alcatel-Lucent Internal All Releases

5. OTDR Measurement Short Trace

NOTE: Refer to Appendix C: Index of Refraction (IOR) Values

NOTE: Exact value should be obtained from fiber manufacturer. A common

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5. OTDR Measurement Short Trace, Continued

NOTE: This parameter must be changed to meet the needs of the

Continued on next page

18 Alcatel-Lucent Internal All Releases

5. OTDR Measurement Short Trace, Continued

DO NOT: Do not connect any fiber unless certain both sides of

IMPORTANT: Refer to Appendix D: Fiber Requirements for

Continued on next page